Preventing theft in Western Europe
I'm going to Europe in a few days and I will be going on a cruise that goes to a few different countries including Spain, Monaco, Italy, and Croatia. I've been hearing a lot of bad stories from people about how they got robbed and how "clever" they are.
It is scary hearing about all this and it makes me wonder what can I do so I don't get robbed? Are they any experienced travelers that can suggest what I can do (such as what should I bring when we are touring, the best place to hide your valuables, etc)?
I think the last thing anyone wants is their vacation ruined because they were robbed.
Best Answer
Leave all you valuables on the Cruise ship. Usually there will be a little hotel-style safe in your cabin. Leave your wallet here. Work out the maximum you need for the day for what you are planning + 10 %.
When you leave the ship take off your Seapass / Cruise card that identifies you on-board ship. Put it in a secure pocket. You will now just look like a random tourist.
Try and avoid dressing like a tourist. (See other questions on here about how to do that). You will now not look like a Cruise goer and most scammers will ignore you and go after easier targets.
If you are really paranoid take an excursion booked on the ship. These are usually 20 % more expensive than tours you book yourself. The only worry with these is they will take you to their brother-in-laws shop and try and sell you tourist tat.
Having said this, most Cruise ports are very safe. None of them want to be known for making Cruise goer's lives a misery. This might cause the Cruise ships to not call again.
I find the main problems are taxi / tour touts outside the Cruise / Harbour complex. Walk out and and about three blocks and you will generally pay less.
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Quick Answer about "Preventing theft in Western Europe"
How do you stay safe from pickpockets in Europe?
Preventing Pickpockets in EuropeHow can we prevent theft in Italy?
Whatever bag you're carrying, always carry it in front of you. Small backpacks or purses should be worn across your chest or stomach, and if it's crowded where you are, make sure you fold your arms over them. If you're carrying a camera, keep it on a strap around your neck, and held in front of you too.Is pickpocketing common in Europe?
Pickpockets are common in many touristy parts of the world, but this problem is especially severe in Europe's big cities \u2014 Berlin, Paris, Rome, Milan, Prague, Athens to name a few.Why are pickpockets so common in Europe?
In response to the original question - why is pickpocketing more common in Europe than the US, there seems to be more tolerance of most forms of petty crime in Europe (drug abuse, vandalism, bike theft, short changing tourists, etc.).European Travel Skills: Avoiding Theft
More answers regarding preventing theft in Western Europe
Answer 2
If you take precautions and use common sense then you will be less likely to have any problems, as SpaceDog says if you don't flash expensive cameras and other items around then you will attract less attention from thieves.
Certainly be aware of people coming up to and distracting you by trying to get you to sign petitions etc., as they are most likely a scam while an accomplice tries to pickpocket you. This was the most common thing I've encountered in tourist areas in Europe.
Above all don't let worrying about it stop you from enjoying your trip!
Answer 3
To add to all the above answers, I can give you an additional piece of advice. Don't let anyone help you when getting tickets from a ticket machine and the like. If in doubt how the machine works, better use a counter. I have been stolen 20 € trying to get a subway ticket in Milan (the bill was snatched by a bystanding lady after the machine refused it). Of course it is always stupid in hindsight, but at the moment, when you are confused and not exactly sure what to do, you probably are quite vulnerable to be tricked.
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